Bolo, Novelty, Channel Inlay, Comanche, Quam, Hallmark, Vintage, 3571

A great bolo can go a long way in adding an element of awesome to an outfit -- it’s unexpected and impossible to ignore!

Created by renowned Zuni artisan Ralph Quam, this bold vintage bolo features a beautiful slide in the likeness of a Comanche chief crafted in intricate channel inlay using stones of black onyx, turquoise, spiny oyster, coral, and mother of pearl, outlined in sterling silver. The cord is a braided leather tipped with sterling silver aiguillettes. It’s an eye-catching piece on anyone -- guy or gal!

Ralph Quam (1914-deceased; Zuni). Mosaic inlay; incised faces; Comanche figural heads. Ralph Quam shared some marks with his wife Fannie Quam.

Marks: R. Q (etched); R. QUAM; R & F; R & F QUAM

• artist: Raymond "Ralph" Quam (1938-1971)
• affiliation: Zuni
• hallmarks: (applied plate) R. QUAM
• materials: sterling silver, turquoise, mother of pearl, coral, onyx, abalone, shell
• dimensions: 2 3/4" x 2 1/2", 38" long
• weight: 54 grams
• tension clamp marked: BENNETT PAT. PEND.
• nice vintage condition
• stones are secure in their settings
• abrasions and surface wear commensurate with age
• silver has a nice patina
• light wear from use
• style: JN3571